Life gets more and more like a cyberpunk novel every week. The latest evidence for this trend comes in the form of a court decision that an expert system that gives advice on bankruptcy procedures is too complex to be considered a clerical tool, and must instead be assumed to be an artificial intelligence practicing law without a licence.
A LIFE IN PICTURES by Mark Ward
We’ve got a new story from Futurismic alumnus Mark Ward – his “Cycle Thieves” was published here around this time last year.
“A Life In Pictures” manages to be absurd and touching at the same time, a buddy movie of an entirely different story.
A Life In Pictures
by Mark Ward
“Let me see if I understand,” said JJ, knuckles white as he made fists to stop his hands shaking. He looked between Frankie Hornbluth sat behind the desk and Pip reclining on the arm of the other chair in the agent’s office. “You want to cast Pip here, a squirrel, as the leading man in my movie.”
“I do,” said Hornbluth. “It’s finishing what Tim Burton started with Charlie and the whatever.”
Hornbluth turned to the squirrel. “Pip, honey. It’s the perfect role for you.” He clenched his fists. “Gritty. Urban.” He cupped his hands over his heart, then wiped away an imaginary tear. “Tender. Warm. A breakout role. You’re made for it. And it gives JJ here something to do.” Continue reading A LIFE IN PICTURES by Mark Ward
What’s on Minsky’s mind?
There are few better-known names in artificial intelligence research than Marvin Minsky. There’s a three-part podcast interview with Minsky over at Information Week, where you can hear the man himself discussing AI’s past failures and future developments. [SlashDot]
Visually Moving Wheel Design
Futurismic at least in appearance, an attempt at reinventing the wheel by making it hubless is truly eye-catching. [meine kleine fabrik]
Cameras for Claymores
Who says technology isn’t making the world a better place? Cheap digital camera technology will now allow the savvy general to keep a close eye on collateral damage, by making it less likely that a Claymore mine will kill or maim the wrong sort of person. If that’s not progress, what is?